Rocky Mountain Columbine
Herb latin name: Rocky Mountain Columbine,Rocky Mountain Columbine Extract
Latin name: Aquilegia caerulea
Family: Ranunculaceae (Buttercup Family)
Medicinal use of Rocky Mountain Columbine: Antispasmodic, diaphoretic, parasiticide, resolvent, salve. The seed was chewed, or an infusion of the root was used, to treat abdominal pains and general sickness.Habitat of the herb: the herb: A wide range of habitats, especially in aspen groves, in the upper levels of the Rockies.
Edible parts of Rocky Mountain Columbine: Flowers - raw. Rich in nectar, they have a sweet taste, they make a very attractive addition to mixed salads and can also be used as a thirst-quenching munch in the garden.
Other uses of the herb: The seed is used as a parasiticide to rid the hair of lice.
Propagation of Rocky Mountain Columbine: Seed - best sown as soon as it is ripe in a cold frame. The seed can be slow to germinate. Stored seed can be sown in late winter in a cold frame. When large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in a cold frame for their first winter. Plant out in late spring or early summer. Division in spring.
Cultivation of the herb: A wide range of habitats, especially in aspen groves, in the upper levels of the Rockies.
Known hazards of Aquilegia caerulea: Although no records of toxicity have been seen for this species, it belongs to a family that contains a number of mildly toxic species. It is therefore wise to exercise some caution. The flowers are probably perfectly safe to eat.
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